Top defensive prospect confirms visit with Chicago Bears

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Eric Root | Last updated Mar 24, 2026 11:22 PM ET

With the NFL draft just a month away, the Chicago Bears will have some tough decisions to make. The team will have to find a way to fill multiple holes at defense, including at defensive tackle, edge rush, and safety.

With four picks in the top 100 picks in the 2026 draft, the Bears’ front office have multiple routes they can go for their first round pick.

The most logical decision would be to boost the defensive line, at either edge rusher or defensive tackle. And now, it’s been confirmed that the team has met with one of the best defensive tackle prospects available.

The Chicago Bears have met with Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald

Ohio State Buckeyes defensive tackle Kayden McDonald (98) watches from the sideline during the NCAA football game against the Michigan Wolverines.

In an interview with Sports Illustrated’s Justin Melo, the Ohio State standout confirmed he has met with the Bears front office.

McDonald confirmed that Chicago was among the many teams he met during interviews at the scouting combine back in February.

He also confirmed that he has a visit scheduled at Halas Hall for a top 30 visit. The Bears are among numerous NFL teams that are bringing the defensive tackle in to visit their facility this offseason.

The All-American picked up three sacks and nine tackles for loss last season with the Buckeyes and has the potential to be a top defensive player in the NFL. With the right coaching and scheme, McDonald can turn into a game changer.

Per @JustinM_NFL , The Chicago #Bears will host top DT Kayden McDonald for a top-30 visit.

McDonald is one of the top DTs in the '26 NFL Draft. Last season at Ohio State

-All-American
-14 G
-65 TOT
-9 TFL
-3 SK
-2 FF
-1 PD
-1 FR

A top option for Chicago with pick #25 pic.twitter.com/SQEJm5RQxY

— Just Another Year Chicago: Bears (@JAYChi_Bears) March 24, 2026

Feb 24, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles speaks at the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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